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Adaeze Eze’s My Virginity, My Pride Sparks Thoughtful Discussion at National Library Owerri

Adaeze Eze’s My Virginity, My Pride Sparks Thoughtful Discussion at National Library Owerri

 The National Library in Owerri was abuzz with engaging discussions as book lovers, educators, and parents gathered for the review of My Virginity, My Pride, a thought-provoking book by Adaeze Eze. The review, led by Dr. Ifenyinwa Iyke Ụzondu of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, shed light on the book’s powerful message about self-worth, moral integrity, and the challenges teenagers face in today’s world.

A Story That Resonates with Today’s Youth

At the heart of My Virginity, My Pride is Adaora, a young girl navigating the complex pressures of adolescence. Through her journey, Eze explores the importance of self-respect, making wise choices, and resisting negative peer pressure. The book doesn’t just present an idealistic view of teenage life—it tackles harsh realities such as unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional toll of making uninformed decisions.

Dr. Ụzondu, in her review, praised the book’s ability to connect with young readers, stating, “This is not just another moral guide—it is a relatable and inspiring story that speaks directly to teenagers.”

A Wake-Up Call for Parents and Mentors

Beyond being a guide for young people, the book highlights the critical role of parents, teachers, and mentors in shaping a teenager’s values. Through Adaora’s relationship with her mother, Eze emphasizes the importance of open communication and positive guidance at home.

One of the parents at the event remarked, “Raising children today is tough, but books like this remind us that our voices still matter. We need to be there to guide them before they face life’s challenges alone.”

A Celebration of Positive Role Models

A key theme in My Virginity, My Pride is the importance of looking up to figures of strength and virtue. Eze references the Virgin Mary as a symbol of purity and resilience, encouraging young readers to embrace values that lead to long-term happiness rather than temporary social acceptance.

A teenage attendee shared, “This book changed the way I see things. I used to feel like I had to follow the crowd, but now I understand that self-respect is more important than fitting in.”

A Must-Read for Teenagers and Educators

As the review session wrapped up, Dr. Ụzondu emphasized that My Virginity, My Pride is not just a book but a tool for important conversations. Whether for a teenager making tough decisions, a parent looking for guidance, or an educator shaping young minds, Eze’s book provides valuable insights on morality, self-discipline, and personal growth.

With its engaging storytelling and timely message, My Virginity, My Pride stands as an essential read for anyone invested in the moral and emotional well-being of young people.

Nigeria, Brazil Resume Strategic Dialogue After a Decade

Nigeria, Brazil Resume Strategic Dialogue After a Decade

The Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has announced the resumption of the Brazil-Nigeria Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue after a 10-year hiatus. The renewed engagement aims to strengthen bilateral relations and foster economic cooperation between the two nations.

Shettima, who chaired an update meeting at the Presidential Villa, revealed that Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin would lead a high-profile delegation comprising top executives from the country’s public and private sectors on a state visit to Nigeria for the second session of the dialogue.

During the meeting, the Vice President highlighted the importance of the initiative, attributing Nigeria’s renewed growth trajectory to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold leadership and well-thought-out policies.

“With President Tinubu, we have a leader who has demonstrated the dexterity and audacity to hope for a better tomorrow,” Shettima stated. He emphasized that the administration’s economic strategies had positioned Nigeria as an attractive destination for foreign investment across multiple sectors.

He further urged all key Nigerian stakeholders to prepare adequately for the discussions, ensuring clarity, strategic coherence, and a deep understanding of the issues to be addressed.

The upcoming Brazil-Nigeria dialogue is expected to cover trade, investment, security, and other areas of mutual interest, reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Nigeria Partners with UK’s Zander Corporation to Combat Desertification and Boost Agriculture

Nigeria Partners with UK’s Zander Corporation to Combat Desertification and Boost Agriculture

 In a move aimed at transforming agricultural practices and restoring degraded lands across Nigeria’s most vulnerable ecological zones, the Federal Government is set to enter into a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom’s Zander Corporation.

The decision was reached during a high-level meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, between Nigerian government officials and the management team of Zander Corporation, led by Lord Raymond Benedict Asquith, the 3rd Earl of Oxford and Asquith OBE, a member of the UK House of Lords.

Speaking at the meeting, the Nigerian government reaffirmed its commitment to afforestation as a core strategy in combating desertification, promoting sustainable land use, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity. Officials emphasized the need for innovative biotechnology solutions to address the challenges of land degradation and food security in the country.

“There is a critical intersection between innovative technology and efforts to combat desertification and drive agricultural transformation in Nigeria,” a government representative stated.

The partnership with Zander Corporation is expected to leverage cutting-edge biotechnological advancements to rehabilitate degraded lands, improve soil fertility, and enhance climate resilience in agricultural communities. Experts believe that this collaboration will not only boost Nigeria’s agricultural sector but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and food security.

Further details on the framework of the partnership, including implementation strategies and investment commitments, are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Women’s Health is a National Priority, Says NITDA DG at International Women’s Day Event

Women’s Health is a National Priority, Says NITDA DG at International Women’s Day Event

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has emphasized the vital role of women in nation-building, stating that a healthy society depends on the well-being of its women. Speaking at the International Women’s Day (IWD) Health Talk today, he called for increased awareness and proactive measures to support women’s health, stressing that when women thrive, families and communities flourish.

Themed “Nurturing Women’s Health: Embracing Hormonal Harmony for Lifelong Wellness,” the event served as a platform to discuss critical health issues affecting women. It featured an enlightening presentation by medical expert Dr. Aisha Ladan Tsamiya, who delved into the significance of hormonal balance, self-care, and the necessity of regular medical check-ups. She urged women to pay closer attention to their health, adopt healthier lifestyles, and seek medical advice when needed.

Dr. Tsamiya highlighted how hormonal imbalances can impact various aspects of women’s health, from reproductive well-being to mental and emotional stability. She also provided practical tips on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including stress management, proper nutrition, and regular exercise.

The event drew a diverse audience, including female professionals, health advocates, and members of the public, all of whom gathered in the symbolic IWD colors of purple, white, and green—representing justice, dignity, purity, and hope. The vibrant atmosphere reflected a collective commitment to championing women’s health and well-being.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions, sharing personal experiences and strategies for maintaining good health despite modern-day challenges. Many left the event feeling empowered, with a renewed sense of responsibility towards their health and that of their communities.

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, the event reinforced the message that prioritizing women’s health is not just a personal choice but a societal obligation. With increasing advocacy and institutional support, the call for better healthcare policies and awareness for women is expected to gain further momentum, ensuring a healthier and more equitable future for all.

FOR 50 YEARS, WE WERE SPENDING THE MONEY OF GENERATIONS YET UNBORN: PRESIDENT TINUBU

FOR 50 YEARS, WE WERE SPENDING THE MONEY OF GENERATIONS YET UNBORN: PRESIDENT TINUBU

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu articulated on Thursday the rationale behind his administration’s economic reforms, saying the primary motive was protecting the interests of future generations.
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“For 50 years, Nigeria was spending money of generations yet unborn and servicing the West coast of our subregion with fuel. It was getting difficult to plan for our children’s future,” he said.

He made these remarks at the State House in Abuja while receiving a delegation of former National Assembly colleagues from the aborted Third Republic, during which he served as a Senator representing Lagos West.

The President highlighted the challenges faced at the beginning of his administration, especially economic and social issues, and expressed his gratitude for the delegation’s support in addressing these difficulties:

“We faced serious headwinds when I took over, very challenging times. Nigeria would have been bankrupt if we had not taken the actions that we took, and we had to prevent the economy’s collapse.

President Tinubu declared that the administration had been able to stem the tide and expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their collective support in turning things around.
“Today, we are sitting pretty on a good foundation. We have reversed the problem; the Exchange rate is stabilising. Food prices are coming down, especially during Ramadan. We will have light at the end of the tunnel.”

He said firm adherence to democratic tenets is the best route to economic, social, and political development.

“I am happy that you are holding to your belief in democracy. I thank you for keeping faith and remembering how we started. Some people missed the ball.

“Some leadership failed, but we kept the faith with our democratic beliefs and freedom and the right to aspire to the highest office in the land. I am benefitting from it.”

Senator Emmanuel Chiedoziem Nwaka, who spoke on behalf of the group, expressed his delight at some of the programmes that the Tinubu administration had implemented, especially the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) and at what the two organisations were offering Nigerians.

“I appreciate you for what you are giving to students because the student population is the largest demographic in the country. I’ve spoken with many of them, and many have benefited from it.

“And the next one is the CREDICORP. That’s a major way of fighting corruption. You see a young man, you come out of school, you want to buy a car, you have to put down cash, you want to buy a house, and you are not married, but with the CREDICORP, you can get things done. I’m following their activities; we are delighted,” he said.

Other members of the delegation were Sen. Bako Aufara Musa, Hon. Terwase Orbunde, Hon. Wasiu Logun, Hon. Amina Aliyu, High Chief Obi Anoliefo and Hon. Eze Nwauwa.

Canon Miraisha Programme Expands Collaboration With Kings & Queens Art Academy in Nigeria to Empower Youth in Bariga and Makoko

Canon Miraisha Programme Expands Collaboration With Kings & Queens Art Academy in Nigeria to Empower Youth in Bariga and Makoko

Canon Central and North Africa (www.Canon-CNA.com), the leading printing and imaging solutions provider, is pleased to announce the expansion of its inspiring collaboration with Kings and Queens Art Academy in Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at nurturing young talent. Building on the outstanding achievements of the previous year, in which 100 aspiring young students from Bariga in Lagos received training in photography and filmmaking, this year will see the initiative, under Canon’s Miraisha Programme, extend to Makoko community, one of the largest slum communities in Africa.

Embodying Canon’s corporate philosophy, “Kyosei”, which means living and working together for the common good, 120 young individuals from both communities will have the opportunity to receive photography and filmmaking training through a series of four comprehensive week-long workshops during March and April. This year’s increased participation rate, with an emphasis on gender balance, reflects Canon’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusive access to education and creative opportunities.

Photography Skills to Empower Africa’s Youth 

This partnership has allowed us to extend our reach and impact, giving opportunities to even more young people

The workshops will be hosted at the Kings and Queens Art Academy in Bariga, providing easy access for participants from the two communities. Designed to offer a comprehensive learning experience, the sessions cover theoretical training, hands-on practical exercises, and outdoor shooting sessions, ensuring participants develop both technical expertise and artistic vision. Topics include camera handling, composition, and storytelling through images, helping participants master the fundamentals while refining their creative skills. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certification, equipping them with recognized credentials to pursue opportunities in photography and filmmaking, ultimately transforming their lives and communities.

Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central and North Africa elaborated on the importance of such programmes, saying, “As an organisation that places great emphasis on people and social impact, Canon’s Miraisha programme works to empower Africa’s youth. We’re so pleased to be, once again, collaborating with Kings and Queens Art Academy to provide a platform to support vulnerable and less privileged young people through photography workshops in their own communities, using local resources.”

The Miraisha Programme has already made significant strides in transforming lives. Four talented participants from last year were awarded scholarships to pursue further education at the prestigious PEFTI Film Institute in Lagos, underscoring the programme’s effectiveness and Canon’s commitment to nurturing future talent.

Supporting Nigeria’s Creative Industry 

Kings and Queens Art Academy has been a cornerstone of cultural and artistic education in Bariga since 2013. It is renowned for reviving African cultural heritage and empowering children through art. The Academy’s community initiatives include children’s art festivals in Lagos and the surrounding areas, celebrating arts development in marginalised communities.

Adewale Ayodeji, Director and Founder of Kings and Queens Art Academy, says, “We are proud to partner with Canon’s Miraisha Programme again to empower the youth of Bariga and Makoko with creative skills and open doors to new possibilities and successful careers in photography. This partnership has allowed us to extend our reach and impact, giving opportunities to even more young people.”

The successful expansion of its collaboration with the Kings and Queens Art Academy reaffirms Canon’s role as a leader in youth empowerment and creative skills training. Through strategic initiatives like the Miraisha Programme, Canon continues to impact lives, foster community relationships, and grow Nigeria’s creative industry.

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Strengthens Collaboration with Universities to Enhance Data Security

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Strengthens Collaboration with Universities to Enhance Data Security

 

In a significant move to bolster data protection within the Nigerian education sector, the National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, recently welcomed a delegation from the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU). The delegation was led by the newly appointed Secretary-General of the CVCNU, Professor Andrew Haruna.

During the meeting, Professor Haruna emphasized the critical importance of data protection in today’s digital age. He highlighted that universities manage vast amounts of sensitive information, including student records, research data, and financial details of both students and staff. “Data protection is not just a necessity but a responsibility in the digital world we live in,” he stated. Professor Haruna further explained that the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration with the NDPC to ensure compliance with data protection regulations across all facets of university administration.

In his response, Dr. Olatunji congratulated Professor Haruna on his recent appointment as Secretary-General of the CVCNU and praised the committee for its ongoing partnership with the NDPC. He underscored the pivotal role universities play as custodians of sensitive information, stressing that data protection and privacy must be prioritized within the academic sector. “Universities handle a significant amount of sensitive data, and it is imperative that Vice-Chancellors, as leaders of these institutions, are well-versed in the data protection ecosystem,” Dr. Olatunji remarked.

The NDPC Chief Executive also called on universities, as key data controllers, to appoint Data Protection Officers (DPOs) and develop comprehensive privacy policies to safeguard personal data. He further offered to provide specialized training for CVCNU members, including Vice-Chancellors, professors, and principal officers, to enhance their understanding of data protection protocols and compliance requirements.

This meeting marks a crucial step in the NDPC’s efforts to institutionalize data protection measures across Nigeria’s higher education sector, ensuring that universities remain secure and compliant in an increasingly digital world.

7 Simple Ways to Get Paid on Time Without Chasing Customers

7 Simple Ways to Get Paid on Time Without Chasing Customers

Running a business in Nigeria isn’t just about providing quality products or services; it’s also about making sure you get paid on time. Too often, business owners find themselves chasing payments, sending repeated reminders, and struggling with cash flow gaps. According to a PwC report, 48% of Nigerian SMEs experience delayed payments, which can disrupt operations, affect salaries, and slow down business growth.

But the real cost of these delays isn’t just the stress of waiting—it’s the uncertainty it creates. Businesses struggle to plan ahead, restock inventory, pay workers, or even keep the lights on. Without predictable payments, expansion is nearly impossible, and owners are left firefighting short-term financial struggles rather than focusing on growth.

If you’re tired of chasing customers for money, here are seven simple ways to ensure you get paid on time—without the stress. The seventh tip includes a newly unveiled tech tool.

1. Set Clear Payment Terms from the Start

One of the biggest reasons payments are delayed is because customers aren’t sure when or how to pay. Avoid this by clearly outlining payment terms before any transaction. Let customers know the exact due date, acceptable payment methods, and any penalties for late payments.

For businesses offering services, a simple invoice with clear terms helps. If you run a school, cooperative, or subscription-based service, structuring payments with due dates reduces confusion. When expectations are clear, payments are more likely to come in on time.

2. Request Upfront or Part Payments

Rather than waiting until the end of a service period to get paid, consider requesting a percentage of the payment upfront. This ensures that customers are financially committed from the start.

For example, if you run a catering business, you can require 50% of the payment before sourcing ingredients. Schools can structure fees into manageable installment plans to encourage parents to pay in advance. When customers have already invested in your service, they are more likely to complete payments on time.

3. Automate Payment Reminders

People get busy, and sometimes, late payments are due to forgetfulness rather than unwillingness to pay. Sending reminders before due dates can prevent this. Instead of calling each customer individually, use automated reminders via SMS, WhatsApp, or email.

For instance, a gym owner can schedule monthly reminders for members before their subscription renewal. Cooperatives collecting monthly contributions can send automatic alerts to remind members of upcoming payments. A simple nudge at the right time can make all the difference.

4. Reward Reliable Customers

Sometimes, the best way to encourage timely payments is to reward the customers who consistently pay on time. This creates an incentive for others to follow suit while reinforcing good payment habits.

For example, a school could offer early payment discounts for parents who settle fees before term starts. A business that provides services on credit could prioritize loyal customers for special deals or extended services. When customers know there’s a benefit to paying on time, they’re more likely to make it a habit.

5. Offer Discounts for Early Payments

Everyone loves a good deal, and small incentives can go a long way in encouraging customers to pay on time. Consider offering a small discount for customers who pay early.

For example, a school can offer a 5% discount on fees paid before the term starts. Landlords can offer a slight reduction on rent if tenants pay before the due date. Small rewards create urgency, motivating customers to settle payments quickly.

6. Enforce Late Payment Penalties (But Politely)

While incentives encourage early payments, penalties discourage late ones. Establishing a small late fee can push customers to prioritize your payment over others. However, the key is to communicate it upfront and enforce it politely.

For instance, a tailor can state that late balance payments will result in an extra charge per day. A cooperative can apply an administrative fee for overdue contributions. Many businesses use “grace periods” before applying penalties to give customers a fair chance. It’s about striking a balance between being firm and maintaining good customer relationships.

7. Use PaywithAccount to Automate and Secure Your Payments

Even with all the right steps in place, managing collections manually can still be time-consuming and stressful. That’s why OnePipe launched PaywithAccount two weeks ago—to help Nigerian businesses get paid on time without the hassle.

PaywithAccount allows businesses to automate payments, ensuring funds are collected directly from customer accounts without the need for follow-ups. This means fewer delays, predictable cash flow, and no more awkward reminders. By eliminating the inefficiencies of traditional payment methods, businesses can focus on what truly matters—growth and customer satisfaction.

Whether you run a school, a cooperative, a gym, or any business that relies on scheduled payments, PaywithAccount simplifies collections and provides peace of mind. Learn more at paywithaccount.com/signup.

In conclusion, late payments can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be the norm. By setting clear expectations, offering flexible options, and using the right tools, you can ensure steady cash flow without stress.

The most successful businesses don’t waste time running after payments—they set up systems that make payments run smoothly. With the right strategy in place, you can focus less on collecting money and more on growing your business.

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Prepares for Major Conference in Abuja

Nigeria Data Protection Commission Prepares for Major Conference in Abuja

 Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), led a delegation from the Commission to the office of the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, to update him on the preparations for the upcoming Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA). The event is scheduled to take place from May 6th to 8th, 2025, in Abuja.

During the meeting, the NDPC team presented a comprehensive briefing on the progress made in organizing the conference, detailing pre-conference, in-conference, and post-conference activities. The presentation also highlighted key milestones achieved so far, covering various aspects of the event, including the conference theme, plenary sessions, and confirmed speakers.May be an image of 8 people, people studying, table and newsroom

Dr. Tijani commended Dr. Olatunji and his team for their thorough preparation and effective planning for the event. He also provided valuable insights and suggestions aimed at further enhancing the success of the conference. Expressing his full support for the event, Dr. Tijani assured the NDPC of the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring the successful hosting of the NADPA Conference in Abuja.

The NADPA Conference is expected to attract key stakeholders in data protection from across the continent, providing an important platform for discussions on best practices and the future of data privacy in Africa.

Nigeria Hosts Landmark International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja

Nigeria Hosts Landmark International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja

In a historic move for the country’s digital and telecommunications landscape, Nigeria successfully hosted the inaugural International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja last week. The summit, which focused on the protection and security of subsea cables, was organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC). The event gathered key stakeholders from around the world to address the pressing issue of subsea cable security, a critical component of global internet infrastructure.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, expressed his deep pride and appreciation for the trust placed in Nigeria to host such a significant global event. Reflecting on the summit’s importance, Dr. Tijani emphasized, “The significance of the trust placed in us to host an event of this nature is not lost on me, especially in view of the leadership we have shown in driving this very important conversation on the protection of subsea cables, which carry over 90 percent of global internet traffic.”

He further acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose leadership and vision continue to propel Nigeria’s progress in the digital space. Dr. Tijani also extended his gratitude to key figures from the ITU, including Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the ITU Secretary-General, and Tomas Lamanauskas, the ITU Deputy Secretary-General, for their leadership and active involvement in the summit.

The summit, which focused on the resilience and protection of subsea cables, brought together telecommunications experts, policymakers, and international organizations to discuss best practices, security measures, and collaborative solutions to ensure the longevity and safety of these critical underwater assets. Subsea cables, which form the backbone of global internet and data traffic, are increasingly vulnerable to physical threats, including natural disasters, cable damage, and even deliberate sabotage. As a result, the protection and resilience of these cables are becoming more urgent in the face of expanding global connectivity.

Dr. Tijani highlighted the contributions of the event’s organizing team, which included the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the ITU. The team worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success, marking a key moment in Nigeria’s growing influence in global tech discussions.

“This is just the start of an ongoing discourse that will ensure we take active steps to safeguard these critical assets,” Dr. Tijani remarked. “We are committed to working closely with our international partners to strengthen global subsea cable networks and secure the future of digital communication.”

The summit also served as a platform for discussions on the future of telecommunications infrastructure and Nigeria’s role in shaping the global digital economy. In his closing remarks, Dr. Tijani reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to leading efforts to ensure the continued protection of subsea cables, stressing that this event would serve as a foundation for future initiatives aimed at enhancing international cooperation in the digital space.

As the summit concluded, participants expressed optimism that the discussions would lead to meaningful collaborations and policy frameworks that prioritize the security and resilience of global internet infrastructure. The event was widely regarded as a success, not only for its timely focus on a critical issue but also for showcasing Nigeria’s emerging leadership in digital innovation and international cooperation.

For those interested in learning more about the summit and its key takeaways, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy encourages readers to follow the #WeekInReview and #NigerianExcellence hashtags for the latest updates and insights. The summit represents the beginning of an ongoing effort by Nigeria to safeguard the future of digital communications, ensuring a secure and resilient digital economy for all.